Five books to read and give you a mental health boost

Reading is a great way to preserve and look after your mental health

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Calmer

Whether you are looking to relax, for guidance, motivation or excitement, books can certainly help lift your spirits and relieve stress. 

1. Good Vibes, Good Life: Vex King

Vex King’s Instagram posts routinely go viral because of their motivational messages and, as you can tell by the title, this book is similar. Good Vibes, Good Life draws on the author’s experiences to give practical tips on wellbeing, including self-care, establishing good habits, manifestation and finding your higher purpose.

• You Are Here: An Owner’s Manual for Dangerous Minds: Jenny Lawson

Lawson’s book uses a combination of pictures and powerful life advice on the topics of self-improvement, therapy, colouring and humour. You Are Here is both amusing and honest. It’s a great read which will, no doubt, help you deal with whatever life throws at you confidently and creatively. 

• Super Attractor: Methods for Manifesting a Life Beyond Your Wildest Dreams: Gabrielle Bernstein

Manifestation is ‘the act or process of taking something hoped for and bringing it to life’. Bernstein’s book allows you to try to manifest the life you dream of. Super Attractor takes a spiritual approach, recommending you to live in accordance with the universe in order to create the life you want. 

• The Book of Happiness: Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama

If you don’t trust Desmond Tutu and Dalai Lama, it’s clear who you will! Both men have shown immense bravery and resilience to achieve what they have despite the challenges they’ve faced and still radiate compassion, and even humour.  The Book of Happiness builds upon this; the two inspirational icons discuss how to discover and preserve joy, even in the hardest of times 

• It’s Okay To Have Strong Feelings: Carissa Potter

This book is perfect for anyone who feels as though they need a little support. It’s Okay To Have Strong Feelings offers practical, honest ideas to help you to better understand yourself and give you that little extra love. Carissa Potter’s writing style also means it’s not a heavy read; it even incorporates relatable comedy into an often-difficult topic.